Yesterday I went to my home group meeting- sundays at 9AM.  There was a woman there I had not seen before.  She was an old timer and in both programs.  I really loved what she said when it was time to share.  I went up to her and told her so and gave her my card with my phone numbers on it.  She gave me hers.  She called me a few hours later and invited me to her home where she, her friends and family were having a birthday for one of her grandkids.  I went.  Felt like family all around.  I felt like i was back in Hawaii where homes and people are just open and people come and go in a loving and respectful manner- program-style.  I laughed with strangers.  I was handed a baby to hold for awhile.  I helped a child with blowing bubbles.  I washed off some screens with the hose.  It was a beautiful afternoon.  I moved here to the American Midwest in Sept from Hawaii and its been a hard transition.  Most people are very closed and keep everyone at a distance here- lots of fear.  Not so with this woman and her family.  I felt welcomed loved and gave love.  It was the best day I have had in a long time.  I love this program and am such a grateful member of this world-wide fellowship.  HP led me to where I needed to be, I just needed to reach out to what felt good and right and i get so much more back.  I have a new friend, a new family.  Hugs, J.